Ransomware Research

Locky-Zepto Ransomware

Locky-Zepto is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on July 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Zepto.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
Locky-Zepto
First Seen
July 1, 2016
Known Aliases
Zepto

How Locky-Zepto ransomware works

File encryption patterns

Locky-Zepto modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:

Extensions added after encryption
.zepto

Ransom note and payment demands

After encrypting files, Locky-Zepto displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:

file/^_[0-9]{1,3}_HELP_instructions\.html$/
notes/_165_HELP_instructions.html
Location: EveryFolder

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with Locky-Zepto ransomware:

About this analysis

This Locky-Zepto ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like Locky-Zepto.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects Locky-Zepto inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify Locky-Zepto across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a scan against your recovery points to confirm.

See How the Hunt Engine WorksRequest a Demo

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What is Locky-Zepto Ransomware? | Elastio